The hearts of Jermaine Boyd, his family and those involved and connected to the inaugural Habitat for Humanity Home netted from the hard work by those with the organization’s Charlotte County Partnership grew larger July 29.

The renovated home in Charlotte Court House — one labored on for months by volunteers in the Boyd-Wilmouth family and Farmville Area Habitat for Humanity — was dedicated through hugs, prayer and kind words last Saturday.

The family of six received the first home in the county kick-started by Habitat through sweat equity — or logging hours in working on the home — taking classes regarding home ownership and much prayer.

Before occupying their new abode, the family lived in Drakes Branch in a run-down trailer that she said “could fit inside” of their new home, according to Alanna Rivera, the volunteer coordinator and office manager with Habitat.

Rivera said the process of working with each member of the family and renovating the home was both rewarding and emotional.

“It just goes to show how full your heart can be giving to someone else, and seeing them walk through their journey, and being a part of that with them,” Rivera said. “(It shows) how you can be blessed just being a blessing to someone else.”

During the dedication, Jermaine Boyd thanked everyone who helped with the process.

“When I filled out the application, I never knew that this would be us,” Boyd said. “From where we were to now, it’s amazing.”

He also gave credit to God.

We congratulate the Boyd-Wilmouth family on the hard work they put into their new home, and commend Habitat for making dreams come true, providing safe, affordable and secure living spaces and for uniting our community for the betterment of others.